From the Research
Vitamin C should not be recommended as a standard treatment for COVID-19 outside of clinical trials due to limited and inconsistent evidence of its benefits. The use of vitamin C in COVID-19 has been investigated in several studies, but the results are mixed and do not provide strong evidence for its effectiveness in preventing or treating the disease [ 1 ]. Some studies suggest that high-dose intravenous vitamin C may have potential benefits in reducing inflammatory markers and improving oxygenation in hospitalized COVID-19 patients [ 2 ]. However, larger and more rigorous trials are needed to confirm these findings and establish the safety and efficacy of vitamin C in COVID-19 treatment.
Key points to consider:
- The evidence for vitamin C in COVID-19 is limited and inconsistent [ 3 ]
- High-dose intravenous vitamin C may have potential benefits in reducing inflammation and improving oxygenation [ 1 ]
- Larger and more rigorous trials are needed to establish the safety and efficacy of vitamin C in COVID-19 treatment [ 4 ]
- Vitamin C supplementation should only be considered under medical supervision due to potential side effects and interactions [ 5 ]
In terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, the current evidence does not support the routine use of vitamin C in COVID-19 prevention or treatment. However, ongoing research and clinical trials may provide more insight into the potential benefits and risks of vitamin C supplementation in COVID-19 patients.